Mr. & Mrs. Chang, Chairwoman Chang, Leaders of the overseas Chinese communities in Panama, Ladies & Gentlemen: Good morning.
First of all, on behalf of the government and people of the ROC, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to all of you, who have been leading the overseas Chinese communities in Panama and have devoted yourselves to serving our overseas compatriots. Your spirit and dedication have won the respect from all of us.
The overseas Chinese communities have always been valuable assets to our country. Moreover, our overseas compatriots are also pioneers in the diplomatic front. Their unwavering support and devotion have been of great help to our economic development as well as our democratic reforms. Their contribution must be recognized and lauded. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to express my highest respect and sincerest gratitude to all of you sitting here today.
At the moment, the world is faced with the challenge of the outbreak of SARS epidemic. Its cause is still unclear and effective counter-measures are yet to be developed. One could say that SARS is even more dangerous and threatening than terrorists. I am rather happy to see that your trip to Taiwan has not been canceled as a result of this outbreak and that no one here is wearing a mask. This signifies that SARS has been effectively contained and controlled by our government and that people have great confidence and need not fear.
Regrettably, the Chinese government has deliberately concealed the spreading of the SARS epidemic--which originated in China--from the rest of the world, which has led to the insufficient timely response to the spreading of this deadly disease. In addition, the Chinese government has used all possible means to obstruct Taiwan's entry into the WHO. Such gesture only shows its lack of respect to the basic human rights of the people in Taiwan. The war against SARS is much like the war against terrorism: neither should be barred by national boundaries. The outbreak of SARS epidemic showed us the importance and necessity of Taiwan's participation in international organizations. Taiwan is committed to fulfill its rightful duties as a member of the world community; moreover, with Taiwan's excellence in medical care, it will contribute to the enhancement of welfare of all mankind after it becomes a member of WHO.
In the last three years, my administration has dedicated itself to reviving the economy, with efforts concentrating on upgrading local industries, resolving unemployment in the face of a global recession, engaging in financial reforms, as well as implementing the "Challenge 2008 Six-Year National Development Plan". Moreover, my administration has made strenuous efforts in eradicating "black gold" and pushing for government restructuring. Meanwhile, based on the principle of "goodwill reconciliation, active cooperation and permanent peace", this administration has been making tremendous effort in creating a positive atmosphere that is conducive to cross-strait relations. The efforts to "revive our economy and instate comprehensive reform" will ensure that our people can enjoy better and happier life.
We, here in Taiwan, are proud of the outstanding achievement of people with Chinese ancestry in all corners of the world. We also hope that Taiwan's achievements in all fronts will bring joy and pride to our overseas compatriots who also cherish democracy and freedom. I would like to urge all of you, after your return to Panama, to once again express our government's care and concern for our overseas compatriots; in addition, I urge you to be our grassroots diplomats and speak up for Taiwan, which has been isolated from the international community and the dignity and rights of its 23 million people neglected.
Finally, I wish all of you good health and best of luck. May you have a pleasant time throughout your stay here in Taiwan. Thank you.